Isaiah 63:16

Yet You are our Father, though Abraham does not know us and Israel does not acknowledge us. You, O LORD, are our Father; our Redeemer from Everlasting is Your name.

Study Bible

Yet You are our Father
This phrase establishes a profound relationship between God and His people, emphasizing intimacy and care. The Hebrew word for "Father" here is "אָב" (av), which denotes not only a biological parent but also a protector and provider. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a father was seen as the head of the family, responsible for the welfare and guidance of his children. This imagery conveys God's role as a loving and guiding presence in the lives of His people, reinforcing the covenant relationship established with Israel.

even though Abraham does not know us
This part of the verse acknowledges a separation or distance from the patriarch Abraham, who is often seen as the father of the nation of Israel. The Hebrew word for "know" is "יָדַע" (yada), which implies an intimate, experiential knowledge. The historical context here reflects a time when the Israelites felt disconnected from their ancestral roots, possibly during the Babylonian exile. Despite this disconnection, the verse reassures the people of their identity and belonging through their relationship with God.

and Israel does not recognize us
Similar to the previous phrase, this highlights a perceived estrangement from their forefather Jacob, also known as Israel. The Hebrew word for "recognize" is "נָכַר" (nakar), which can mean to acknowledge or to regard. This suggests a feeling of being forgotten or unacknowledged by their own heritage. The historical backdrop of exile and dispersion might have contributed to this sentiment, yet the verse underscores that their true identity and recognition come from God, not merely from human lineage.

You, O LORD, are our Father
Reiterating the opening declaration, this phrase emphasizes the personal and communal relationship with God. The use of "LORD" (YHWH) is significant, as it is the covenant name of God, denoting His eternal and unchanging nature. This repetition serves to reassure the Israelites of God's unwavering commitment to them, despite their circumstances. It is a call to remember that their ultimate identity and security are found in their divine relationship.

Our Redeemer from Everlasting is Your name
The term "Redeemer" (גּוֹאֵל, go'el) is rich with meaning, referring to one who buys back or rescues. In the cultural context, a redeemer was often a family member who restored the rights of another, reflecting God's role in delivering His people from bondage. "From Everlasting" (מֵעוֹלָם, me'olam) speaks to God's eternal nature and His timeless commitment to His people. This phrase encapsulates the hope and assurance that God, as their Redeemer, is both their historical and eternal Savior, offering a promise of restoration and continuity beyond their immediate struggles.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Isaiah is the author of the book that bears his name. He prophesied to the Kingdom of Judah and is known for his messages of both judgment and hope.

2. Abraham
The patriarch of the Israelites, Abraham is often referred to as the father of faith. In this verse, he symbolizes the ancestral lineage and covenant promises.

3. Israel
Referring to both the person (Jacob, who was renamed Israel) and the nation, Israel represents the chosen people of God. In this context, it signifies the collective identity of the Israelites.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal and unchanging nature. He is recognized as the true Father and Redeemer of His people.

5. Redeemer
A title for God, highlighting His role in delivering and saving His people. The Hebrew word "Go'el" implies a kinsman-redeemer, one who restores and protects.

Teaching Points

God as Our True Father
Despite earthly lineage or recognition, God is our ultimate Father. This relationship transcends human ancestry and is rooted in His eternal nature.

Identity in God
Our identity is not solely based on our heritage or the recognition of others but is firmly established in our relationship with God as our Redeemer.

The Eternal Redeemer
God's role as Redeemer is timeless. He has been, is, and will always be the one who saves and restores His people.

Faith Over Ancestry
Spiritual lineage is more significant than physical descent. Faith in God and His promises is what truly connects us to the family of God.

Recognition and Assurance
Even when we feel unrecognized or forgotten by others, God knows us intimately and claims us as His own.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God as our Father change the way we view our identity and worth?

2. In what ways can we rely on God as our Redeemer in our daily lives?

3. How does the concept of God as a kinsman-redeemer deepen our understanding of His relationship with us?

4. What are some practical ways we can live out our identity as children of God, especially when others may not recognize it?

5. How can we encourage others to find their identity and assurance in God rather than in human recognition or lineage?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 32:6
This verse also refers to God as a Father, emphasizing His role in creation and guidance of His people.

Psalm 103:13
Illustrates God's compassion as a father has compassion on his children, reinforcing the paternal relationship between God and His people.

Galatians 3:29
Connects believers in Christ to Abraham's seed, showing that faith, not just lineage, defines the true children of God.

John 8:39-41
Jesus discusses the true children of Abraham, emphasizing that actions and faith, not just ancestry, determine one's spiritual lineage.